Since 1976, Alaska has paid its residents to live there due to its Permanent Fund Reserve.

The payouts are funded by Alaska’s oil royalties and are divided up evenly among citizens.This essentially pays people to move to Alaska, permanently that is. Investment earnings on Alaskan mineral royalties are paid out to Alaska residents. The Yearly Resource Rebate payouts vary.  Generally, residents can expect an average of about $1,250. The state feels that it is an investment in their current population as well investing in future generations in hopes that they stay in Alaska. To be eligible for the dividend, you need to have lived in Alaska for one year. This financial incentive can help make up for the higher cost of living that many pay in Alaska. This can be helpful for making other financial goals – like establishing an emergency fund or saving for a home down payment.

for more information visit, https://smartasset.com.

Anchorage and Fairbanks are the two largest cities in Alaska, although the state capital of Juneau is a close second. Juneau and Anchorage will both be a bit colder and wetter in the summer months; by comparison, Fairbanks is quite dry and sunny, with warmer temperatures. Decide what your priorities are and plan your trip accordingly.

Mountain  Views: A trip from Anchorage on the Parks Highway, north to Denali National Park is a good bet; if it is a clear day you might even get a look at the crown jewel – Denali (Mt. McKinley) A drive to Valdez on the Richardson is also a sure bet for mountain vistas.

Warm, dry weather: Spend your time in and around Fairbanks. You will still have distant views of the Alaska Range, but the weather will be warmer and drier than it will be in and around Anchorage or the Kenai Peninsula. Fairbanks has plenty to do: hiking, fishing, and museums – even a natural hot springs at Chena Hot Springs Resort, about an hour outside of the city.

Marine wildlife and/or glacier viewing: Seward and Whittier are both excellent places to take charter tours for wildlife and/or glacier excursions. Ride in luxury on a heated boat while you eat crab cakes and sail past glaciers, or get up close and personal with glaciers on a kayaking trip.

Bears: Your best bet is to spend a few days in Denali National Park. You are not allowed to drive around the park freely in your vehicle – the park restricts the use of personal vehicles to preserve the road and to protect wildlife – but once you are in, visitor buses will bring you all over the park. Igloo Creek is a great area for bear sightings.

Source: http://thetravelersway.com/how-to-plan-an-alaska-road-trip/

Moving to Alaska allows for living in the modern age with the freedom and adventure of living on the edge of wilderness. Major cities of Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau offer career and professional growth opportunities unlike many places in the Lower 48. No matter how long you live in Alaska, you’ll probably never take its natural beauty for granted.

Is Alaska right fit for you?

You will never find out until you visit and explore for yourself. You’ll be surrounded by friendly people . While you’re here, take time to see Denali Park and Kenai Fjords, both near Anchorage. You’ll soon figure out why we think Alaska is the last great place on earth. If you have extra time, check out our smaller communities like Homer, Nome, Haines, Ketchikan, or Skagway.

What are the people like?

Alaska has a very tight-knit community with a taste for adventure and the good life. Many of us like to fish and hunt. Some of us seek a change of pace. No matter how we got here, our remoteness brings us together to solve problems in our own way.

Weather

Sure, winters can get cold however the landscape is beautiful. Dryer air often makes the temperatures more tolerable as compared to other northern states, and the snow supports a wide range of exhilarating outdoor activities. Winter supports access to remote areas that are near impossible to reach during the summer or wet seasons.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Alaska is not as expensive as you might think. The cost of living in many cities throughout Alaska is affordable and is significantly less expensive than other U.S. cities. The state’s best offerings and natural beauty are free.  Places like Anchorage and Fairbanks provide all the conveniences of large cities, but without the congestion and hassles. Commutes can be shorter, so you don’t need to burn a lot of gas. There are greenbelts and parks everywhere with access to dozens of activities for families.

Sources: For more information visit http://www.alaska.net/

Alaska is the home of the world’s most beautiful scenery and is best explored through a road trips. Wherever you go, wilderness surrounds you with enormous mountains, animals appearing, and quaint small towns. And whenever you like, you can explore a side road, make discoveries, and linger for as long as you like.

Anchorage is a great base for scenic day drives and parks are easily accessible. Take off on the legendary Parks Highway, with views of Denali (Mt. McKinley); meander on the Seward Highway with coastal views or set off down the Glenn Highway to view the Matanuska Glacier.  Explore the beauty of Alaska by car at your own pace.

See our list of favorite spots below. We hope you are inspired to take a road trip and explore the natural beauty of Alaska.

• Denali Park Road (McKinley Park to Kantishna)
• Matanuska Glacier Scenic Drive
• Anchorage to Seward (Seward Highway)
• Eklutna Lake Scenic Drive
• Exit Glacier Road
• Hatcher Pass Scenic Drive
• Turnagain Arm Drive
• Portage Valley & Whittier Tunnel Drive Guide
• Old Glenn Highway Scenic Drive
• Arctic Valley Road Scenic Drive

Shipping a car to Alaska is a lot more simple than it sounds. We answered some common questions asked while setting up vehicle shipments to help you prepare for your booking.

What do I need to set up my shipment?
• Year, Make & Model of the vehicle
• Vehicle Color
• Vehicle VIN Number
• License Plate Number (If available)

 How long will it take to ship my car?
Transit times vary depending on the origin and destination of your shipment. You can visit our transit times page to view delivery times for your specific route.

Can I track the progress of my shipment online?
Yes. Online tracking is available to you 24 hours a day and is updated in real-time. Upon scheduling your shipment, you will receive a unique booking number that will allow you to track the status of your shipment online anytime.

Can I have anything inside my vehicle when shipping?
If you would like to ship personal belongings inside your vehicle, it must be discussed prior to your vehicle being shipped. Your shipping coordinator will notate the weight of the personal items inside the vehicle and your rate will be updated to include personal belongings.

How do I pay for my shipment?
We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, electronic transfer, money orders, and company checks. Payment must be made in full prior to the date of your shipment.

Are there size restrictions on shipping my vehicle?
The rates provided online apply to standard size vehicles. A standard size vehicle is defined as any passenger automobile not excedding 21’6″ length x 8′ width x 7′ height. If your vehicle is larger than the standard dimensions, please contact our oversize shipment department by calling (907) 331-3100 to receive a rate for your transportation.

How much gas can I have in my vehicle?
Less than 1/4 tank – no exceptions. This is a coast guard regulation (#176.905). Please note, we do not offer a siphoning service.
What is required on the date of my shipment?
• Copy of booking
• Set of keys
• Picture ID

How can I book my shipment?
For your convenience, you can book your shipment securely online anytime. If you would prefer to set your shipment up with a shipping coordinator, please call (907) 331-3100 during normal business hours.

For some, winter is all about hibernating. The more cold weather, ice, and snow, the more excuses to curl up with a good book on the couch and watch a movie. For others, winter is all about being active. Whether you are hibernating for the winter or looking forward to some cool and adventurous activities, it’s time to think about some heart healthy winter activities. Here are a few:

Cross-Country Skiing

While you might think that cross-country skiing only provides a workout for the lower body like the thighs and calves, you also get a pretty awesome upper body workout too. Many active people go to the gym to get a good cardio workout, build muscle and burn calories too. Cross-country skiing can provide all three benefits.

You might need to hit the gym for a while before heading out cross-country skiing, but the experience and the adventure will offer you many benefits.

Ice-Skating

Most people think of pure fun when they think about ice-skating, but this winter sport can keep you fit while you’re having fun. There are many obvious benefits, but also a few hidden benefits to ice-skating.

• Increase flexibility
• Build up muscles in your calves and legs
• Improve stability and balance
• Give you nice cardio workout

So, next time you’re debating on whether or not to lace up, remember the fun but also remember the health benefits as well.

Sledding

You might not think that sledding provides any benefit health-wise whatsoever. However, if you think about it – what goes up must come down. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll want to do it all over again – which means you have to get back to the top of the hill.

In snow, that’s a bit trickier than on soil. That climb becomes a bit more of a workout, but you’ll probably not notice because you’re too busy having fun.

Snowboarding

The great thing about snowboarding is that it works out your mind and your body. You have to concentrate on keeping your balance while having fun at the same time. Think also of the muscles you use when snowboarding. There are several benefits to this winter sport; you get to have a cardio workout, exercise muscles you never knew you had and keep your mind sharp all at the same time.

Check out this article that tells all about the difference between anaerobic and aerobic exercises and how they both relate to snowboarding.

http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/fitness/strength-training/the-aerobic-and-anaerobic-benefits-of-snowboarding.html

Of course, with any physical activity (especially winter sports) always check with your doctor beforehand.

Off road enthusiasts have it made when it comes to visiting Alaska. There are many exciting and adventurous places to explore. If you love to take your off-road vehicle for a spin, you have plenty of options in Alaska. Here are a few of the most popular trails.

Captain Cook State Recreation

Some locals and visitors might refer to Captain Cook State Recreation area as one of Alaska’s hidden gems. Visitors to the Kenai Peninsula will be awe-struck by its peaceful line of forestry, sparkling lakes and streams full of wildlife.

Off roaders will be charged by the undiscovered terrain and the breathtaking backdrop. All-terrain vehicles are only permitted in certain areas. When you’re done roughing the terrain, you can always stop and find a spot to throw in a line to catch some rainbow trout or silver salmon. Take some time for bird watching or wildlife viewing and catch a glimpse of a beluga whale on the way.

Coal Mine Road

The Coal Mine Road is as rugged as rugged gets. An off roader can enjoy the 4X4 trails that makes its way around several small lakes. The mountain views are as rugged as the terrain. While there, you can catch some decent fishing or rent a cabin nearby. Best time and maybe only time to visit is in summer; however, you might need to make a reservation months in advance.

While, it’s snowing in many parts of the country right now, the best time to think ahead for this locale is now. Sometimes reservations are necessary six month in advance. Perfect timing.

Clam Gulch Recreation Area

Like the name suggests, Clam Gulch Recreation Area is the perfect place to dig for clams. If you’re looking to take your All-Terrain Vehicle out for a spin and enjoy digging for razor clams, then this is the place for you.

Visitors love to spend time at the park; camping, digging for clams and off-roading till the sun goes down. While off road vehicles are restricted to stay within the campground, beach, and saltwater access roads, sometimes this is all that’s needed.

You can bring your 4X4, dirt bike, ATV or Motor cross and enjoy the terrain, the activities and nature like you’ve never seen it before. For more inspiration on how to trade in your car for an off-roader, check out this adventurous soul here:

http://www.motortrend.com/news/celebrity-drive-josh-gates-travel-channel-expedition-unknown/

No matter what type of off-road vehicle you enjoy, there’s a spot for you in Alaska. Even if you don’t have an all-terrain vehicle of your own, there are plenty of tours you can take. From Denali Park to the backroads, there’s always an adventure in Alaska.

Summer is long behind us as we welcome in fall. Fall brings change in weather, change in clothing and change in our mindset. We get ready for the beauty of the falling leaves, maybe a fall road trip and getting excited for the upcoming holidays. Hearth and home is more important and more apparent during the fall season.

As we leave behind memories of walking on the beach at night, we do get other opportunities to glimpse nature at its finest with the onset of the upcoming meteor showers and shows. Just because summer has ended and we don’t find ourselves walking under the stars on the beach at night doesn’t mean we still can’t enjoy a meteor shower or two along the way in fall.

Of course, some of the most-loved and well-known light shows are the Perseid meteor show in Alaska and the Aurora Borealis, but here are a few others.

The Orionids

If you live far enough away from the bright city lights and have an evening with a cloudless sky, you can view the meteor shower of the Orionids. Friday night into the wee early hours of Saturday morning will give you an opportunity to view the dancing lights of the Orionids. You won’t even necessarily need the benefit of a telescope.

The prediction for best viewing for this meteor show is in the wee hours just before dawn. If you’re up for an adventure, you might get lucky and see quite the show.

You may even get to see a dozen or more meteor showers an hour on this one. While October may be peak viewing time, you may still see some action up until somewhere in mid-November.

If nothing else, you might be able to view the a full and brightly shining moon in the hours just before dawn. If you’re a fan of super moons, then you are in luck this year. The entire month of November will be a great time to head outside and check out a rare view of Earth’s moon, up close and personal. It will get to boast that it is the fullest, brightest and biggest but also the closest since the late 1940s.

The North and South Taurids

From early to mid-November, you may be able to view the meteor shower the Taurids will put on display. While not as high in volume, these meteor showers will be apparent for a longer time frame.

While the Orionids may offer anywhere from 10 to 20 meteors per hour, the Taurids may be closer to seven per hour, but just as enjoyable the same. When Taurus the bull is high in the sky, the most activity can be seen.

The Leonids originate from Leo the Lion and if you were around in 1966 you may remember one of the greatest meteor shows there were. With thousands of meteors falling from the night sky, it was a show to remember.

For a more extensive list with some stunning pictures, click here:

http://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/earthskys-meteor-shower-guide#south-taurids

If Alaska had a slogan, it might just read, “Go Fourth and Celebrate.” Just about everywhere you turn, there’s a celebration in honor of the Fourth of July. It may be because cities like Seward earned the title of “All American City” on not one, but three occasions. Or maybe it’s because Alaska is the last frontier where wilderness remains pristine.

 
Who knows, but if you haven’t made any plans to visit Alaska or haven’t had time to plan your Fourth of July vacation, why not make travel plans to visit Alaska now. If you’re lucky enough, you’ve already signed up for the Mount Marathon Race in Seward. Runners can face the challenge that only the Mount Marathon can offer.

 
If running is not your style, then fishing just might be. If you’re an angler seeking out solitude and wilderness, there’s no place better to do that than in Alaska. For some travelers, sitting around in traffic waiting to arrive at their destination and for their vacation to begin is just the norm. For others, being alone with the wilderness and being one with nature is where it’s at for this year’s vacation.

 
The beauty of Alaska is, of course in its natural landscaping. Brown bears, wild salmon, moose, and the bald eagle are just a few of the natural and amazing sites you’ll see. And as diverse the landscape is from mountains to rivers and glaciers, is how diverse the activities you will find there.

 
If solitude and casting your line in the fresh, cool waters of Alaska or running up a mountain in a marathon are not your style, and you are more Americana than that, how about a good old-fashioned parade down Main Street.

 
The city of Seward hosts the most spectacular parade you could imagine. The small town of only a few thousands bursts at the seams every Fourth of July to host its annual Fourth of July festivities. Whether it’s an historic stroll down town or to browse through the wares of the many vendors, there’s plenty of festivities to take part in on Main Street USA in Seward, Alaska.

 
For more fun in the Alaskan sun, visit the Girdwood Forest Fair in early July. There are plenty of activities from a dazzling parade to interesting foods, fun contests and enjoyable entertainment not to mention plenty of craft vendors.

 
Why is this summer the perfect time to visit Alaska? Alaska is not your typical vacation for starters; there are more diverse activities than you could imagine. Culture and heritage are important to Alaskans and so is preservation of the pristine natural wilderness. In Alaska during summer, the nights are longer and the days are sweeter. It’s that simple.

For more information on some of the summer festivities, click HERE

If you’re old enough to drive a car, then you’re old enough to treat Dad to a really great time this Father’s Day. When you’re a small child, it makes Dad happy to get those hand-made, home-made gifts. Now that you’re a grown-up and able to drive to just about anywhere, why not make it a Father’s Day to remember this year?

 
More than anything else, if your dad is like most, he’d love the opportunity to simply spend time with you. He’s busy, you’re busy and it’s all good; however, planning some cool outing with your dad might just make it his best Father’s Day yet.

 
Keep it Simple

 
You don’t have to spend an exorbitant amount of money on Father’s Day this year in order to make it a good one. Grab some tickets to a game and jump in your car. The time spent bonding with your dad at a sporting event will create memories to last a lifetime. There’s no price you can put on that. A one-day travel adventure is just as good as an extended vacation.

Or Go Big with a Father and Son Travel Excursion

 
What better way to bond with dad than to do take on some manly travel excursions? Fishing is and probably always will be one of the greatest ways for fathers and sons to spend time together. If you and your dad spent countless hours fishing, hiking and camping when you were younger or even if you never got the chance at all, there’s no better time than now to grab your pole and spend time with dad this Father’s Day. If you didn’t plan something yet, there’s still time. Be bold, think out of the box; check out these father/son fishing activities.

 
Take a Hike

 
If you didn’t get a chance to celebrate the 100th anniversary of our National Parks, it’s not too late. Combining the anniversary of our National Parks with Father’s Day is one of the best ideas you can have. You don’t have to worry if dad’s never been hiking before either. There are plenty of parks that offer beginning hiker trails. These National Parks are more for the one-of-a-kind experiences and majestic, magnificent views rather than the actual experience or lack thereof of hiking.

 
Camp Out

 
If you’ve ever gone camping with your dad, it was probably when you were a small child. How great would it be to camp out again with dad, only this time more as an equal? You can show your dad just how much you learned from him when camping out as a young boy and just how much you listened to him too. A gift like that is priceless to your dad.
No matter what state you’re in, you’re bound to find a camping excursion that suits you both best or one that’s only a road trip away. Imagine combining a road trip on the open road that ends with a camping outing this Father’s Day weekend. That’s a win/win combination, for sure.

 
There are dozens of activities to choose from this Father’s Day that will make it a day to remember:

 
• Hiking
• Fishing
• Camping
• Sporting event
• Rock climbing
• Mountain climbing
• National parks

 
No matter what you choose, spending time with your dad beats giving him a tie, hands down.